Morrison going for goal against Greece

Lewis Morrison hopes he can mark his return from suspension with the goal that gets Scotland’s UEFA European Under-17 Championship campaign back on track.

The Kilmarnock youngster missed the opening day defeat to France on Thursday after picking up two cautions in the elite qualifying round but is available for selection for tomorrow’s clash with Greece.

The 16-year-old, nicknamed ‘Jinky’ by his team mates, found the net in his under-17 debut in March when he came off the bench to net the opening goal in 2-0 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Now the striker has set his sights on another goal to boost Scotland’s chances of reaching the quarter-finals of this summer’s tournament in Bulgaria.

He said: “I can’t wait for the game tomorrow. I was gutted to miss the match against France because I want to be involved in every match possible when I am away with Scotland but I’ll be ready to go if picked against Greece.

“I managed to score on my debut in the elite round and that was an amazing feeling. I’d love to help the team with another goal tomorrow.”

Morrison has raced through the Scotland youth national team age groups after impressing for the under-15s and under-16s.

He made his debut in an under-15 friendly win over Poland at New Douglas Park last year where he provided an assist in a 2-1 win.

He then starred in an under-16 tournament earlier this year where he scored two to help Scotland to a 2-2 draw with Slovenia.

Despite his meteoric rise, Morrison recognises just how high the standard is in youth international football.

He said: “I’ve scored a few goals for the under-16s and under-17s but the players at this level are much quicker and stronger than what I’m used to. You just have to deal with it.

“I was a little surprised to be picked for the elite round and the finals because I am a year younger than most of the other boys but it’s been great experience for me.

“Hopefully I can keep doing well for the team and help us go as far as we can in the competition.”

Scotland face Greece tomorrow in their second group match at the UEFA European Under-17 Championship Finals in Bulgaria. The match kicks-off at 3pm (UK time) and you can follow the build-up and action on the Scottish FA Twitter page.